Sora is a guide and Riku is the hero (My Theory)

[Amaziah from Youtube 5]

Grammar/Error Warning

Undergoing Reform

RIKU IS THE REAL HERO (THEORY)

I wanted to make sure this theory reaches as many people as possible. If you aren't to keen on reading here's the original video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEOZyPxtOmg

If you'd like to read the theory though. Let's begin:

 

In this video I want to propose or convey an idea not many have proposed if at all. So as you all know Kingdom Hearts has always followed Sora and made him out to be the HERO some destined Keyblade barer until we reached Dream Drop Distance 4 years ago. We'll what if I also told you Kingdom Hearts 3 and what we know thus far also supports this theory? (I know I'd get ignorant hate because quote "We haven't played it yet how can you know?! I'm so... triggered! ) Yes, what we know actually does coincide with my theory. To understand the ending we must start from the beginning starting with the previous then current Generation.

 

Birth By Sleep

In this game we have our previous trio interact with the current trio and they develop connections. These connections are as stated (Terra-Riku] Aqua- Kiari, Riku, Sora] Ven-Sora). But someone's connections are not meant to be Sora's! (As we know from the know it all himself Mater Xehanort in DDD) In this journey the most important visits to Destiny Islands is connected to Terra and Aqua's portions. In Terra's visit he bestows the power of the Keyblade to Riku do to their outlooks on "what's really important" being highly relatable. As he states in the ritual "So long as you champion the ones you love" (As we know Riku admired Sora a lot when they were children.) The second most important visit: is Aqua's! Where we can concur that Aqua would've bestowed the power to Sora do to Riku having the power and darkness looming over his shoulder. So she instead asks Sora to "Protect Riku" be by "his side" and "guide him if he wanders a dark path" (Please keep this in mind as we go along.) Now Terra also made a statement that tripped me out "Aqua, Ven, one day i'll make this right." what if this is connected to the seed he sowed by gifting Riku with the keyblade? Just something to think about sense Nomura hinted the person in Terra's heart isn't actually Eraqus.

 

Kingdom Hearts 1

In this game as we know the journeys of our current trio begins. But do to KH usually following Sora's perspective we'll be going into Riku's instead (Remember the Guardian Role Sora Plays). In this entry Riku was supposed to be bequeath the Kingdom Key but do to his wavering heart the keyblade moved along, or at least we were lead to believe that. Overtime this journey solidifies what it means to wield the Keyblade and Riku displays the complete opposite demeanor. Showing disdain and jealousy for Sora during our interactions with him. Most noted time was when he calls Sora a "delivery boy" and when he lets Ansem into his heart just to gain enough strength to put Sora beneath him. Going against the rituals line of "Championing the ones you love." though surprisingly in the end Riku returns to that boy that cared for his friends taking his heart back from Ansem and secluding himself in the Realm of Darkness.

 

Kingdom Hearts Chain Of Memories

In this entry Riku is called to Castle Oblivion to take on the trial of gaining control over his darkness and choose a path of Light or Darkness. But on his journey Riku learns that darkness does not need to be snuffed out. But instead it can be controlled and used to help him reach the light again. After fighting a few Organization members he finally takes on his inner struggle Ansem. After overcoming the battle it is discovered Riku possess an ability never before seen. The ability to balance the light and darkness in his heart making him immune to corruption on both ends! 

 

Kingdom Hearts 2

After the events of chain of memories Riku has left to learn how to control the darkness's hold on him. So out of fear of not being able to face Sora and Kiari thinking they would hold his actions from KH1 against him. Until he learns they've forgiven him and have been searching for him. After he rekindles that bond with them he's bequeath the gift of a new keyblade which he secretly struggles with accepting.

 

Kingdom Hearts Dream Drop Distance

You all should know the premise of this game, if not, SPOILERS AHEAD! Sora and Riku dives into the hearts of the worlds to awaken them from slumber as their "Mark of Mastery Exam". Whoever dives into the worlds hearts and return unscathed will gain a new power and will be crowned "Master". We learn a few things about our two heroes.

 

Sora:

 

1) Is prone to darkness of high levels like Xehanorts.

 

2) And Sora is actually a dull ordinary boy only powerful because of the connections in his heart. But he would never be chosen by a key.

 

Riku:

 

1) Riku is immune to even the deepest depths of darkness which he's dived into twice

 

2) and Riku possess the power to save people from the darkness

 

Now if you'll recall I said DDD exposes a lot about the theory? You should see what I'm eluding too. Sora can't fight Xehanort off. But Riku, however, has done it twice. Also, in the end Yen Sid says that "THEIR FATES REST BEST ON RIKU'S SHOULDERS"

 

Kingdom Hearts 3

So of course things get a little bit flexible and interpretive here but let me explain why this coincides with my theory thus far. In the 2013 announcement trailer () we see Sora pick up the "Master Defender" as we know from Nomura Aqua will find out how to save Ventus and Terra in "A Fragmentary Passage" words from Nomura himself! But at the time Sora picks up this Key he shouldn't be a Master seeing as his clothes are still the KH2 duds. Leaving only one Master to be picked by the key "Riku". Think about it! Aqua knows Riku/Sora's home is Destiny Island meaning she could've sent the key to them the same way she lends Terra her Key. As a symbol of her will being left in Terra's hands.

Secondly, take a listen to Young Xehanort's words to Young Eraqus in the E3 2015 trailer "On that land shall darkness prevail and light expire" If we've already established Riku's immunity to darkness since CoM it would make sense he'd survive the event of darkness consuming the light. During the 2nd key blade war.

Lastly, think about Xehanort's goal in KH3 "13 darkness's and 7 lights whose final clash will beget the prize I seek...The X-Blade!" As we know the X-blade is a wavering key meaning it would connect to Riku because they're wills are the same and as we know a key can renounce a wielder if their hearts do not relate to it's will. The same way Riku lost the Kingdom Key.  

Look at the way to dawn keyblade and look at the X-Blade the Heart emblem is evidence. The X-Blade emblem is safe guarded by two Kingdom Keys but I think that symbolizes "Defender of Kingdom Hearts". 

 

 

So what do you think? Join the ongoing discussion or hmu on youtube to get a quicker reply!

Edited January 12, 2016 by Amaziah from Youtube

[Enix 995]

I'm sorry but the grammar is killing me. I couldn't understand your theory.

[Amaziah from Youtube 5]

I'm sorry but the grammar is killing me. I couldn't understand your theory.

Kind of why I provided the video my dude.

[Shimmy 458]

While your theory makes sense, I can't help but point out that Sora is a dull and ordinary boy in order to show that anyone can be the hero. It's sort of the point.

That being said this series can take whatever direction it wants to, I just can't really envision Nomura pulling off that sort of twist (though it wouldn't really be a twist for the reasons you described if anything it's kind of redundant but I digress) but it's possible.

After all you're info is correct and well spot :>

[Amaziah from Youtube 5]

While your theory makes sense, I can't help but point out that Sora is a dull and ordinary boy in order to show that anyone can be the hero. It's sort of the point.

That being said this series can take whatever direction it wants to, I just can't really envision Nomura pulling off that sort of twist (though it wouldn't really be a twist for the reasons you described if anything it's kind of redundant but I digress) but it's possible.

After all you're info is correct and well spot :>

May I have a sec to laugh at that dope pic m8? NICE

Back to reality. Yeah a lot of people talk about Nomura's incapacity to not be able to pull off big things like this. But it kind of trips me out that Riku has spent all this time in the background when it's his gift to Sora that makes this all possible he could always take his key back. Then again maybe the 2015 trailers elude to Sora's true key post Mastery.

[Shimmy 458]

May I have a sec to laugh at that dope pic m8? NICE

Back to reality. Yeah a lot of people talk about Nomura's incapacity to not be able to pull off big things like this. But it kind of trips me out that Riku has spent all this time in the background when it's his gift to Sora that makes this all possible he could always take his key back. Then again maybe the 2015 trailers elude to Sora's true key post Mastery.

I appreciate that you like Gangster Saïx all of my love and immature sense of humor went into it as I made a blingee account B)

True true. That being said Riku still does get a lot of spotlight eh? Granted not as much as Sora but I'd hardly say background. Sora's the main hero of the story but Riku significantly impacts the plot, which in turn marks him as one of my personal favorite characters. 

I strongly believe that he'll continue to impact the plot in khiii, and I think he doesn't mind that Sora more or less stole his power. If anything Dream Drop Distance implied that Riku's place is fighting along with Sora and he wouldn't want it any other way.

That's just my interpretation though. Either way I think it's safe to assume he'll be with us in khiii and he'll be an important addition. 

[Dave 5,715]

Sora only fell into Darkness because he was essentially hijacked. Every other time, he has resisted its allure using nothing but strength of will. Not to mention that his 

 

Riku fell into Darkness willingly to gain power and work out his problems with not being the alpha male anymore, and again later to hide his shame because he wasn't heroic enough to actually apologize (which he still hasn't, incidentally).

 

Even if Nomura wants to make-believe that Riku is somehow magically "immune" to Darkness, Sora has done a far better job of fighting it off than Riku.

[Amaziah from Youtube 5]

Sora only fell into Darkness because he was essentially hijacked. Every other time, he has resisted its allure using nothing but strength of will. Not to mention that his 

 

Riku fell into Darkness willingly to gain power and work out his problems with not being the alpha male anymore, and again later to hide his shame because he wasn't heroic enough to actually apologize (which he still hasn't, incidentally).

 

Even if Nomura wants to make-believe that Riku is somehow magically "immune" to Darkness, Sora has done a far better job of fighting it off than Riku.

Sora has fought off the darkness, but never alone. It was Riku's power that kept his heart from being devoured when destiny islands was swallowed "connected". Sora was highjacked in DDD, yes, but if he was so keen on fighting off darkness. He would've never fallen asleep. Listen to Young Xehanort's words closely the plan was to have Sora dive deeper and deeper and since Riku was in his heart he would be afflicted the same way imprisoned in Sora's dream and never to escape. But that didn't happen Riku fell into the depths and still beat Ansem, The Nightmare, and Young Xehanort. He came out unscaved as they were meant to do. I said I proved he was immune and so did Young Xehanort on a multitude of occasions "But you developed a certain immunity to darkness" and "You really did it! You've found a way to seal the darkness in your heart (something Xehanort even thought wasn't possible)" proof enough for you? If not, I can provide the scenes? Now about plunging himself in darkness that was a mistake just overcame in Dream Drop Distance when he finally fight the Ansem in his own heart. Dream Drop Distance ties up the theory making Riku the forefront for more than the sake of irony.

I appreciate that you like Gangster Saïx all of my love and immature sense of humor went into it as I made a blingee account B)

True true. That being said Riku still does get a lot of spotlight eh? Granted not as much as Sora but I'd hardly say background. Sora's the main hero of the story but Riku significantly impacts the plot, which in turn marks him as one of my personal favorite characters. 

I strongly believe that he'll continue to impact the plot in khiii, and I think he doesn't mind that Sora more or less stole his power. If anything Dream Drop Distance implied that Riku's place is fighting along with Sora and he wouldn't want it any other way.

That's just my interpretation though. Either way I think it's safe to assume he'll be with us in khiii and he'll be an important addition. 

Well probably from the 3rd quarter on he'll be present. Him and Sora are to separate as disclosed by the synopsis, but yeah, Sora as Riku's guardian would still be a good reason to make him our window into the story. I'm just saying Riku will play a more significant role in the end. If Darkness prevail in the end Riku could become the playable character. Seeing as Nomura hinted other characters will be playable for probably 25% of the story (number is a suggestion from other youtubers).

[Shimmy 458]

Well probably from the 3rd quarter on he'll be present. Him and Sora are to separate as disclosed by the synopsis, but yeah, Sora as Riku's guardian would still be a good reason to make him our window into the story. I'm just saying Riku will play a more significant role in the end. If Darkness prevail in the end Riku could become the playable character. Seeing as Nomura hinted other characters will be playable for probably 25% of the story (number is a suggestion from other youtubers).  

I could easily see Riku's immunity to darkness playing a key role in the story. I'm inclined to believe that Sora will have the final battle for obvious reasons, but I'm certain that Riku will be playable in parts if multiplayer ends up being true, and I'm sure his impact will be great. 

I kind of like how the story took the course of Sora's being Riku's guardian to switching roles. I'm sure many will agree with me if I say Riku has rightfully earned the title of guardian in Dream Drop Distance (he is his dream eater after all), and Re:Coded even implied it (albeit that was Data-Riku, but Data Riku is pretty great ok).

Sora's still our hero, but Riku is a hero in his own right.

 

[Amaziah from Youtube 5]

 

I could easily see Riku's immunity to darkness playing a key role in the story. I'm inclined to believe that Sora will have the final battle for obvious reasons, but I'm certain that Riku will be playable in parts if multiplayer ends up being true, and I'm sure his impact will be great. 

I kind of like how the story took the course of Sora's being Riku's guardian to switching roles. I'm sure many will agree with me if I say Riku has rightfully earned the title of guardian in Dream Drop Distance (he is his dream eater after all), and Re:Coded even implied it (albeit that was Data-Riku, but Data Riku is pretty great ok).

Sora's still our hero, but Riku is a hero in his own right.

 

 

I can see that to be true.

[Dave 5,715]

Sora has fought off the darkness, but never alone. 

 

 

Neither did Riku. Mickey helped bail him out during Chain of Memories, Sora helped him out in KH2, and Ansem the Wise helped get him out of his dark form with his machine.

 

 

 

 It was Riku's power that kept his heart from being devoured when destiny islands was swallowed "connected".

 

And Sora's power kept his heart from being devoured. And the fact that he did it without giving in shows a great level of personal strength and perseverence.

 

 

 

Sora was highjacked in DDD, yes, but if he was so keen on fighting off darkness. He would've never fallen asleep.

 

I'm reasonably certain that his willingness to fight the Darkness isn't correlated with essentially getting kidnapped and drugged.

 

 

 

Listen to Young Xehanort's words closely the plan was to have Sora dive deeper and deeper and since Riku was in his heart he would be afflicted the same way imprisoned in Sora's dream and never to escape. But that didn't happen Riku fell into the depths and still beat Ansem, The Nightmare, and Young Xehanort. He came out unscaved as they were meant to do. I said I proved he was immune and so did Young Xehanort on a multitude of occasions "But you developed a certain immunity to darkness" and "You really did it! You've found a way to seal the darkness in your heart (something Xehanort even thought wasn't possible)" proof enough for you? If not, I can provide the scenes? 

 

Oh, no, I know that that's in the game and that's the direction the series is going. I just think it's a garbage plot point for rewarding Riku for abetting in destroying the world while punishing for Sora for daring to have a strong will and being a good guy. It's like saying if a person has stolen before, they're more immune to stealing that someone who has never done it.

 

 

 

 Now about plunging himself in darkness that was a mistake just overcame in Dream Drop Distance when he finally fight the Ansem in his own heart

 

I don't think it was a "mistake" so much as it was a conscious and deliberate life decision that Riku made on multiple occasions. Fighting Ansem is the symbolic end piece to those choices, but that doesn't change the fact that he made them to begin with. 

[Shimmy 458]

 

I don't think it was a "mistake" so much as it was a conscious and deliberate life decision that Riku made on multiple occasions. Fighting Ansem is the symbolic end piece to those choices, but that doesn't change the fact that he made them to begin with. 

Indeed. Riku's decisions were his own and the fact that he's fighting Ansem show's he's owning up to his past regretful decisions. It's been stated that Riku's developed an exceptional resistance to darkness (through quite the story arc that involved lots of encouragement from others might I add), but that doesn't change the fact it was Riku's own choices that caused him to go through that in the first place. (forgive not forget, encourage redemption not reward...)

Sora's got the purer personality between the two and is our protagonist, who unlike Riku, never made a choice so un-thoughtful thus far. As a result Sora has rightfully earned his right to the Kingdom Key and has proven his worth. Likewise Riku has redeemed himself and has proven himself worthy to fight alongside Sora. 

Riku has grown as a character, but Sora is still our rightful protagonist- again they're both heroes, but Sora is our hero. 

[Amaziah from Youtube 5]

Neither did Riku. Mickey helped bail him out during Chain of Memories, Sora helped him out in KH2, and Ansem the Wise helped get him out of his dark form with his machine.

 

 

And Sora's power kept his heart from being devoured. And the fact that he did it without giving in shows a great level of personal strength and perseverence.

 

 

I'm reasonably certain that his willingness to fight the Darkness isn't correlated with essentially getting kidnapped and drugged.

 

 

Oh, no, I know that that's in the game and that's the direction the series is going. I just think it's a garbage plot point for rewarding Riku for abetting in destroying the world while punishing for Sora for daring to have a strong will and being a good guy. It's like saying if a person has stolen before, they're more immune to stealing that someone who has never done it.

 

 

I don't think it was a "mistake" so much as it was a conscious and deliberate life decision that Riku made on multiple occasions. Fighting Ansem is the symbolic end piece to those choices, but that doesn't change the fact that he made them to begin with.

Riku didn't deliberately through himself into the darkness it was a mistake he thought the darkness was the door to cross over into new worlds in which he was willing to go threw it even if the darkness surrounded him. That's called making a mistake that's like an adolescent picking up a non-purchased ball and walking out the door with it. If one would label that stealing they're full of it. The same can be said for what Riku did he opened the door not knowing better. When he woke up Maleficient the same character that tricked Terra into releasing a heart found him. She made him believe making these decisions was going to save Kiari though he did have his own dark motive on top of that. But before he could even execute them he was controlled by Ansem.

 

Mickey did in fact help him in chain of memories. But he still held his own against Ansem. Who even scarred the Organization members. Mickey helped him not get lost before he obtained the immunity, it was after Ansem was suppressed, he became immune. When mickey saved him that was a last ditch effort to drag him into darkness

 

Once again; it was clear Sora knowingly was diving into darkness Joshua, Young Xehanort, Braig, Xemnas etc. have tried to tell him that he was treading on thin ice. But he kept fighting going against Xemnas was part of fighting the darkness from his perspective. But instead of getting out he got engulfed and succumbed to it, suppressing his heart in the folds. That was his own doing he wandered to far and stayed to long.

When that carried over into Riku's perspective (in sora's heart) he won his fights and escaped. Is that not clear m8 lol? This is when he gets captured https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BxHDACu0er8 the rest was a path he had choice to follow.

Edited January 7, 2016 by Amaziah from Youtube

[Dave 5,715]

Riku didn't deliberately through himself into the darkness it was a mistake he thought the darkness was the door to cross over into new worlds in which he was willing to go threw it even if the darkness surrounded him.

 

Throughout the game, Riku intentionally and actively pursues the Darkness to get what he wants. He wants to see other worlds, and embraces the Dark specifically for that reason. He doesn't like that Sora is more powerful than him, so he gladly accepts multiple powerups from Maleficent, and eventually Ansem, to further use the Dark and assert himself. Even if he starts with relatively good intentions, as his arc progresses, he allows himself to entertain his thoughts of envy, power, and lust, and the more he becomes enamored with these thoughts, the more he turns to Dark to get what he wants. Whether the kickoff was a mistake or not, he actively makes more deliberate choices stemming from that mistake that reflect on him personally.

 

That's called making a mistake that's like an adolescent picking up a non-purchased ball and walking out the door with it. If one would label that stealing they're full of it.

 

 

Well, no, that would still be stealing. What matters is if they then learned they were wrong, returned what was stolen, and then actively pursued to never do it again. Riku gets a taste of the Dark, and does get several chances to not give into it, but ultimately disregards those chances and opts to keep right on trucking along the path he chose, until the end of Hollow Bastion.

 

 

 

When he woke up Maleficient the same character that tricked Terra into releasing a heart found him. She made him believe making these decisions was going to save Kiari though he did have his own dark motive on top of that. But before he could even execute them he was controlled by Ansem.

 

And Maleficent certainly is a cagey villain who knows her craft well. But she didn't force Riku's hand, just whispered in his ear and let his own thoughts guide his hand. Riku's willingness to tag along with Maleficent is a decision he makes himself, and even if he thought it was to help Kairi, do the means justify the ends to point of absolving him of all wrongdoing?

 

 

 

Once again; it was clear Sora knowingly was diving into darkness Joshua, Young Xehanort, Braig, Xemnas etc. have tried to tell him that he was treading on thin ice. But he kept fighting going against Xemnas was part of fighting the darkness from his perspective. But instead of getting out he got engulfed and succumbed to it, suppressing his heart in the folds. That was his own doing he wandered to far and stayed to long.

 

Like an adolescent stealing a ball, perhaps?

[Amaziah from Youtube 5]

Throughout the game, Riku intentionally and actively pursues the Darkness to get what he wants. He wants to see other worlds, and embraces the Dark specifically for that reason. He doesn't like that Sora is more powerful than him, so he gladly accepts multiple powerups from Maleficent, and eventually Ansem, to further use the Dark and assert himself. Even if he starts with relatively good intentions, as his arc progresses, he allows himself to entertain his thoughts of envy, power, and lust, and the more he becomes enamored with these thoughts, the more he turns to Dark to get what he wants. Whether the kickoff was a mistake or not, he actively makes more deliberate choices stemming from that mistake that reflect on him personally.

 

 

Well, no, that would still be stealing. What matters is if they then learned they were wrong, returned what was stolen, and then actively pursued to never do it again. Riku gets a taste of the Dark, and does get several chances to not give into it, but ultimately disregards those chances and opts to keep right on trucking along the path he chose, until the end of Hollow Bastion.

 

 

And Maleficent certainly is a cagey villain who knows her craft well. But she didn't force Riku's hand, just whispered in his ear and let his own thoughts guide his hand. Riku's willingness to tag along with Maleficent is a decision he makes himself, and even if he thought it was to help Kairi, do the means justify the ends to point of absolving him of all wrongdoing?

 

 

Like an adolescent stealing a ball, perhaps?

By the way I'm loving this discussion. No anger, no cursing, just chill play of thoughts.

 

I can see where you're coming from and you do have a point... to a degree. But we've seen Maleficent's "whispering" awaken the darkness in others. Biggest example was Terra can't remember if it happened to Pete. Which in that case your point loses some merit points. Why? Cause who's to say she wasn't doing that to Riku... In fact it's hinted she was. When she tries to do it at one point I think after Sora decides not to join him on the ship Riku tells her to leave him be and even Sora claims a few times that Riku can't be in his right mind. You can only intentionally do something if you know the outcome or result otherwise it's a mistake and Riku didn't make decision knowing where they'd get him. He just picked up where he was and kept going and it was all for his friends he tried to get the gang together so they all could travel the worlds. I addressed his lust and hunger for adventure in the theory stating he does them as mistakes it's why he fought for his friends after Sora weakened Ansem when he learned the truth and came to his senses he helped them escape dire strains like 3 times. Wanting to be stronger than Sora I can call him on that though because he should've logically known letting a dark being into his heart would lead to some trouble. But being told by Sora it's cool if he comes with him and make a change isn't a window out. Especially when Donald was writing him off each time he got it made him feel unwelcomed.

 

But lastly didn't I Aqua conceal this point? When she talks about Riku's "Dark Path" to Sora? Why would it be his job to keep him safe who is he meant to be if not the hero? It was his destiny to wield a key and Sora intruded on said Destiny when he took it. It was his light that kept Sora when Destiny Islands was swallowed and Riku

[Shimmy 458]

By the way I'm loving this discussion. No anger, no cursing, just chill play of thoughts.

 

I can see where you're coming from and you do have a point... to a degree. But we've seen Maleficent's "whispering" awaken the darkness in others. Biggest example was Terra can't remember if it happened to Pete. Which in that case your point loses some merit points. Why? Cause who's to say she wasn't doing that to Riku... In fact it's hinted she was. When she tries to do it at one point I think after Sora decides not to join him on the ship Riku tells her to leave him be and even Sora claims a few times that Riku can't be in his right mind. You can only intentionally do something if you know the outcome or result otherwise it's a mistake and Riku didn't make decision knowing where they'd get him. He just picked up where he was and kept going and it was all for his friends he tried to get the gang together so they all could travel the worlds. I addressed his lust and hunger for adventure in the theory stating he does them as mistakes it's why he fought for his friends after Sora weakened Ansem when he learned the truth and came to his senses he helped them escape dire strains like 3 times. Wanting to be stronger than Sora I can call him on that though because he should've logically known letting a dark being into his heart would lead to some trouble. But being told by Sora it's cool if he comes with him and make a change isn't a window out. Especially when Donald was writing him off each time he got it made him feel unwelcomed.

 

But lastly didn't I Aqua conceal this point? When she talks about Riku's "Dark Path" to Sora? Why would it be his job to keep him safe who is he meant to be if not the hero? It was his destiny to wield a key and Sora intruded on said Destiny when he took it. It was his light that kept Sora when Destiny Islands was swallowed and Riku

I'm all for redemption and forgiveness (Saïx is my avatar after all) and I agree that when Riku made his decisions he did not understand the consequences of his actions. He was emotionally manipulated by Maleficent during a weak point, and as a result she ended up molding him into a puppet that would turn to create a large source of his regret later. It makes all of his actions understandable it does not make them okay. Riku is written as a sympathetic character because despite his wrong doings, the player knows he has good intentions and just made crappy decisions. This means Riku deserves the player's mercy and we are to forgive him but not forget what he has done. Sora is written as an ordinary boy who was considered the second best option considering Riku was screwed up completely at the time. He did everything Riku was supposed to, and he forgave Riku despite the latter's behavior. After all if an ordinary boy who was personally targeted by jerkface over there and can find it in his heart to forgive, then the player can too. This is exactly why Sora is the hero, he earned the kingdom key, he forgave Riku, he saved the worlds, all when it wasn't his job. Why did he do it? Because Riku was unavailable at the time, and dangit Sora made a great replacement and he did everything. Riku can't take it away from Sora, because Sora rightfully earned it. Riku however, can (has) earn(ed) his place besides Sora. Because Sora, by forgiving Riku, gave Riku the opportunity to become a better person. And Riku did become a better person, he's proven it time and time again. Heck he proved it before he even forgave himself because he's that much harder on himself then Sora is on him. Riku has shown the player that he makes a pretty great hero just like he was supposed to be and that you can become a better person. That being said it doesn't make Sora any less of a hero even though he was never supposed to be one. 

 

This is why Sora gets to be our protagonist even though he was more or less an accident. Sora no matter how screwed up he is with multiple people inside of him purely by accident, earning the kingdom key purely by accident, is a pretty extraordinary ordinary boy. He's an amazing accident and he deserves to stick around. Riku's been through a lot and he's a great person despite his past misgivings, and he also deserves to stick around and he's more then happy to be there for Sora since Sora was there for him when he didn't have to be.  

 

In the end, I think it's a given we should have all forgiven Riku by now (come on dude he's a nice guy overall and he even forgave himself by now), while acknowledging he has to/has taken responsibility for his actions and deserves to fight with Sora just as much as Sora deserves to be the hero.

 

They're both pretty great after all. But y'know that's just my take on it so yeah. 

Edited January 7, 2016 by Shimmy

[KingdomHearts3 2,591]

This is contrary to the letter Mickey wrote to the three and what Naminé has said in Re:coded. Sora's duty is to save Ventus, Terra, and Aqua. This theory is contrary to everything we have seen of Sora.

[Muke 32]

^

Thanks.

[Amaziah from Youtube 5]

This is contrary to the letter Mickey wrote to the three and what Naminé has said in Re:coded. Sora's duty is to save Ventus, Terra, and Aqua. This theory is contrary to everything we have seen of Sora.

No. It actually doesn't and if that's the case why does the synopsis say "Mickey and Riku are going to find Ven, Terra, and Aqua"? In DDD Riku acquired the ability to save people from their darkness. That's what Yen Sid spoke of and as we know the previous trio are "trapped in darkness and stuck in slumber". 

 

Now let's talk about your interpretation of the theory. This does not ruin Sora's character it's making a prediction of what his true place in the story is. Why do you think a Keyblade he isn't meant to have is following him or why Master Defender is on Destiny Islands when there's one Master there? Riku may be like Annakin he lost his way before but in 3 he may fulfill his destiny. What's the point of immunity if it won't be utilized for important portions of the story? Now I accept what Summy says "This would kind of switch up the story itself and Nomura probably couldn't do it properly." But I fall back on Xehanort's words "Darkness prevail" and y'all aren't realizing that Xehanort can destroy worlds with ease meaning the 7 guardians will be trapped in the folds of Darkness the same place Sora couldn't survive in. But I accept I could be reading Riku's portions of the story wrong as well so maybe he is just meant to fight alongside Sora like Sasuke-Naruto which Summy proposed. But either way his build up can't be denied because you like Sora more. DDD put him in his place and made him out to be someone who can't do anything without his connections and in 3 he will lose those connections except the ones in his heart. Why do you think there's countless theories on Sora losing his key?

 

Namine didn't say anything about him fighting Xehanort and what Mickey says in his letter helps my theory let's quote the letter:

"I wanted to tell you right away, About memories from the past that sleep within you, And about the pieces that will tie you to your future. Sora, Riku, Kairi, the truth behind the Keyblade,(Which Sora isn't connected to as of DDD) has found its way through so many people, and now I know that it rests in your hearts. Sora, you are who you are because of those people, but they're hurting, (I never denied he had these connections but that doesn't change the fact he shouldn't have them at all.) and you're the only one who can end their sadness (Once again the KH3 synopsis exposes that Riku is going to save them). They need you. It's possible that all your journeys so far, have been preparing you for this great new task that's waiting for you. (This sums up Namine's message to digital Sora and Mickey and as she said "what's inside his heart will break him." Which is what this letter is about.) I should have known there were no coincidences, only links in a much larger chain of events. (Refer to Sora's discussion with Braig in DDD) And now the door to your next journey is ready to be opened." (And after DDD we learn this isn't his Journey just one he walks because of those he's tied to meaning he's infringing on Destiny)"

 

Now if I propose "he's a guardian" which Aqua asked him to be mind you. Who's to say he isn't guiding them to the final battle his connections are the scapegoat to them falling into darkness and Riku possess the power to save them. Yen Sid's words to Riku before he dived into Sora's heart https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-o-wYATfro

I forgot we even see him wield his bequeath as to be wielded by him in this scene! Otherwise, It would've faded. 

Edited January 7, 2016 by Amaziah from Youtube

[KingdomHearts3 2,591]

No. It actually doesn't and if that's the case why does the synopsis say "Mickey and Riku are going to find Ven, Terra, and Aqua"? In DDD Riku acquired the ability to save people from their darkness. That's what Yen Sid spoke of and as we know the previous trio are "trapped in darkness and stuck in slumber".  Now let's talk about your interpretation of the theory. This does not ruin Sora's character it's making a prediction of what his true place in the story is. Why do you think a Keyblade he isn't meant to have is following him or why Master Defender is on Destiny Islands when there's one Master there? Riku may be like Annakin he lost his way before but in 3 he may fulfill his destiny. What's the point of immunity if it won't be utilized for important portions of the story? Now I accept what Summy says "This would kind of switch up the story itself and Nomura probably couldn't do it properly." But I fall back on Xehanort's words "Darkness prevail" and y'all aren't realizing that Xehanort can destroy worlds with ease meaning the 7 guardians will be trapped in the folds of Darkness the same place Sora couldn't survive in. But I accept I could be reading Riku's portions of the story wrong as well so maybe he is just meant to fight alongside Sora like Sasuke-Naruto which Summy proposed. But either way his build up can't be denied because you like Sora more. DDD put him in his place and made him out to be someone who can't do anything without his connections and in 3 he will lose those connections except the ones in his heart. Why do you think there's countless theories on Sora losing his key? Namine didn't say anything about him fighting Xehanort and what Mickey says in his letter helps my theory let's quote the letter:"I wanted to tell you right away, About memories from the past that sleep within you, And about the pieces that will tie you to your future. Sora, Riku, Kairi, the truth behind the Keyblade,(Which Sora isn't connected to as of DDD) has found its way through so many people, and now I know that it rests in your hearts. Sora, you are who you are because of those people, but they're hurting, (I never denied he had these connections.) and you're the only one who can end their sadness. They need you. It's possible that all your journeys so far, have been preparing you for this great new task that's waiting for you. (This sums up Namine's message which is what this letter is about.) I should have known there were no coincidences, only links in a much larger chain of events. And now the door to your next journey is ready to be opened." (And after DDD we learn this isn't his Journey just one he walks because of those he's tied to meaning he's infringing on their Destinies)

That Master Defender on Destiny Islands was not story. It was an alpha trailer for the game. Sora has memories within his heart that he must summon. Riku and Mickey are going to find PREVIOUS KEYBLADE WIELDERS, not Ven, Terra, and Aqua. Nowhere did the summary of the story say the three who became lost to fate. Sora, Donald, and Goofy will find members for the seven lights and the Ley to Return Hearts. Sora with his connections will reach out to Aqua in the darkness like Kairi did with Sora and Riku in KH2 and them with her, will return Ventus's heart to him and then kick Master Xehanort out of Terra's body, all of this with that key (in my opinion). Besides, if you have forgotten, the E3 KH3 trailer shows the chess piece of Sora lined up across from the chess piece of Master Xehanort. That is not coincidence. That also possibly means Sora will be the one to deliver the final blow to Master Xehanort completing for Ven, Terra, and Aqua what those three started. It all leads to Sora to summon all that I have said up.

[Amaziah from Youtube 5]

That Master Defender on Destiny Islands was not story. It was an alpha trailer for the game. Sora has memories within his heart that he must summon. Riku and Mickey are going to find PREVIOUS KEYBLADE WIELDERS, not Ven, Terra, and Aqua. Nowhere did the summary of the story say the three who became lost to fate. Sora, Donald, and Goofy will find members for the seven lights and the Ley to Return Hearts. Sora with his connections will reach out to Aqua in the darkness like Kairi did with Sora and Riku in KH2 and them with her, will return Ventus's heart to him and then kick Master Xehanort out of Terra's body, all of this with that key (in my opinion). Besides, if you have forgotten, the E3 KH3 trailer shows the chess piece of Sora lined up across from the chess piece of Master Xehanort. That is not coincidence. That also possibly means Sora will be the one to deliver the final blow to Master Xehanort completing for Ven, Terra, and Aqua what those three started. It all leads to Sora to summon all that I have said up.

But that "alpha" is still story related the GAMEPLAY is CGI. "Sora, Donald and Goofy will attempt to search for *seven guardians* of light and the "Key to Return Hearts", while King Mickey and Riku search for *previous Keyblade wielders*, in an attempt to stop Master Xehanort's plan" It means the same thing! What other previous wielders are they looking for? I leave that hole on your shoulders.

[KingdomHearts3 2,591]

But that "alpha" is still story related the GAMEPLAY is CGI. "Sora, Donald and Goofy will attempt to search for *seven guardians* of light and the "Key to Return Hearts", while King Mickey and Riku search for *previous Keyblade wielders*, in an attempt to stop Master Xehanort's plan" It means the same thing! What other previous wielders are they looking for? I leave that hole on your shoulders.

That alpha isn't. It was to show off.It is not the same thing at all. The seven guardians of light would be Ven, Terra, and Aqua. The previous keyblade wielders could be related to the Foretellers from KHX. Nomura did say they would play a role in KH3 so the previous keyblade wielders could be them. Edited January 8, 2016 by KingdomHearts3

[Amaziah from Youtube 5]

That alpha isn't. It was to show off.It is not the same thing at all. The seven guardians of light would be Ven, Terra, and Aqua. The previous keyblade wielders could be related to the Foretellers from KHX. Nomura did say they would play a role in KH3 so the previous keyblade wielders could be them.

So they're searching for Keys that are older than Yen Sid, Xehanort, and Eraqus? You've severely mistaken my man in Xehanort and Eraqus's generation the Foretellers were already a Fairy Tale. Why would they be searching for them? We already have a nickname for them "Lost Masters" why not just call them that if that's what it means? As we know Mickey discusses meeting Aqua with Riku and Kiari and I'm pretty sure that's the beginning seeing as -A Fragmentary Passage- is told in past tense (post BBS-COM) So why would Yen Sid ask Sora to go look for them when Riku is already on the way? Also, Terra will not be saved by Sora. That's for sure. Terra is in the same place that Sora was in DDD's ending and we all saw how that works out for him. Now Ventus and his heart may mean he'll be saved by Sora. But Aqua and Terra are definitely being saved by Riku. As we know quarter 1 of KH3 is about (Xehanort and Eraqus, Then it would've been -A Fragmentary Passage-, The Master Defender finding, Then Riku and Mickey obviously leaves on their journey) Then some time between quarter 1-2 Sora will return and be named a Master *CONFIRMED*) 

Also, pre-alphas for KH games have stayed true to their games plots. KH2's Sora chasing Xemnas in hollow bastion, DDD the return of Ansem and Xemnas. It's not like the 2013 trailer was Pre-Alpha to a new I.P DDD https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wc8mka8ZBtk 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cbEvmJmw7fI

Edited January 8, 2016 by Amaziah from Youtube

[KingdomHearts3 2,591]

So they're searching for Keys that are older than Yen Sid, Xehanort, and Eraqus? You've severely mistaken my man in Xehanort and Eraqus's generation the Foretellers were already a Fairy Tale. Why would they be searching for them? We already have a nickname for them "Lost Masters" why not just call them that if that's what it means? As we know Mickey discusses meeting Aqua with Riku and Kiari and I'm pretty sure that's the beginning seeing as -A Fragmentary Passage- is told in past tense (post BBS-COM) So why would Yen Sid ask Sora to go look for them when Riku is already on the way? Also, Terra will not be saved by Sora. That's for sure. Terra is in the same place that Sora was in DDD's ending and we all saw how that works out for him. Now Ventus and his heart may mean he'll be saved by Sora. But Aqua and Terra are definitely being saved by Riku. As we know quarter 1 of KH3 is about (Xehanort and Eraqus, Then it would've been -A Fragmentary Passage-, The Master Defender finding, Then Riku and Mickey obviously leaves on their journey) Then some time between quarter 1-2 Sora will return and be named a Master *CONFIRMED*) Also, pre-alphas for KH games have stayed true to their games plots. KH2's Sora chasing Xemnas in hollow bastion, DDD the return of Ansem and Xemnas. It's not like the 2013 trailer was Pre-Alpha to a new I.P DDD

 2

You have no clue if the Key to Return Hearts is older or younger than Xehanort, Eraqus, and Yen Sid. You are guessing and it hasn't been confirmed how old it is, but that isn't the point. Where did you get Riku is already is looking for Aqua and Terra? That is nowhere confirmed. How do you know who gets saved by who? What you implied was Mickey's letter was just a piece of paper written to make Sora feel more confident about himself making Re:coded completely irrelevant. Sora has the memories of someone else residing deep writhing him and he will truly summon those and use them to help him save Ventus, Terra, and Aqua. How do you know the order in which KH3 will go? You don't and are guessing. It could go in any order. Sora might be named master half way or at the end because he accomplished everything that he was destined to do. Okay, it was confirmed that we would see Young Xehanort and Eraqus at the beginning, but really? That takes up a quarter of the game? It is a conversation between the two that we see, not a KH2 prologue. Sora and his pals look for guardians of light (Ventus, Terra, and Aqua) while Riku and Mickey look for previous keyblade wielders. The Foretellers may be the lost masters. If so, then you search for them and find them. They do have a role in KH3 and they might know what is on the missing page of the Book of Prophecies and use that as leverage over Master Xehanort when the time comes.

[Amaziah from Youtube 5]

No you miss interpreted my point I'm not talking about the "Key To Return Hearts". Which is obviously the keyblade Ansem used in KH1 when you connect the dots. I meant "You're implying Mickey and Riku are searching for Masters older than Xehanort, Yen Sid, and Eraqus?" Highly unlikely when their time is called the "fairytale era" even in Eraqus time the foretellers were already just a fairytale.

Lol and your lack of knowledge on KH3 CONFIRMED news is showing! We know for a fact "the game will open with Xehanort and Eraqus"- Nomura, A Fragmentary Passage "is pulled from the beginning of KH3"- Nomura, Logically if 0.2 is pulled from the beginning the Master Defender will reach destiny islands in the beginning (It could very well be what triggers Yen Sid's state of urgency to summon Ven, Terra, and Aqua). Makes sense if she puts the key in the water and it floats to Destiny Island. Do to the relativity of RoD-RoL it would also make sense it hasn't reached Destiny Island, till after DDD! KH3 synopsis says when we pick up Sora in KH3 in Q1-Q2 he will become a master which is obviously when his clothes will change! Need anything else for proof my dude? And SoraIam1 proved the foretellers make some of the 13 seekers look up his video on Chi he proves Young Xehanort is screwing with the book to share his heart with them which fits with his. "Thanks to you and Sora we learned that not all our original members fit the quota, however, we've managed to MAKE UP THE DIFFERENCE."

Now about confirming if Riku will save Aqua and Terra. Read closely: Terra is in the same folds of darkness Sora was in and Aqua is deep in the Realm Of Darkness where Riku has been before.

Edited January 10, 2016 by Amaziah from Youtube